Classic motor in the test: Is the Bosch Performance CX still the benchmark?
Florentin Vesenbeckh
· 14.03.2026
With power update, new mode and stylish top tube display, the classic is more powerful than ever before. It's quite clear that the souped-up CX falls well short of the DJI's mega-power - and it doesn't set any records in the weight rankings either. But it offers other advantages. In our range tests, the Bosch system traditionally comes out on top. The Reutlingen-based company's second speciality is modulation. With the new E-MTB+ mode, the CX has a secret weapon for technical uphills. With its situational coasting and excellent traction, it becomes a trial tool with superpower for experienced bikers.
A detailed comparison with the DJI Avinox M1 can be found in our comprehensive benchmark test. There we have analysed topics such as range, modulation and background noise in more detail:
The ecosystem has grown well: various displays and controls are just as much a part of the modular system as different battery sizes and a range extender. Good: On many bikes, you can switch between 600 and 800 batteries in a matter of seconds. There is also a very wide selection of bikes. 600 or 800 watt hours? Removable or permanently installed? E-mountain bikers are spoilt for choice. Pleasant: The latest expansion stage of the Bosch CX is one of the very few e-bike motors that is rattle-free thanks to a patented freewheel system. By the way, weight fetishists can save around 100 grams with the special model CX-R (details here in the link). However, this specialist does not deliver any more benefits, which makes it a rarely installed engine.
Display and operation of the Bosch Performance CX
Bosch offers a wide range of control elements and displays for the CX. The most elegant and high-quality solution is the combination of Kiox 400C, a colour display embedded in the top tube, and the wireless mini remote.
The Kiox 400C sits slim and well protected in the top tube of the bike. The display is sharp and clear, the readability is very good. A navigation view can also be shown on the display and the view pages can be customised via the app. There is also a charging port (USB-C) for the sat nav or smartphone.
The Bosch Miniremote works wirelessly. This is a major advantage that only a few control units currently offer. The centre button can be used to scroll through the view pages on the display. The feel is good, but unfortunately the plastic switches proved to be less durable in continuous use.
Facts and measured values Bosch Performance CX
- Top performance: 689 watts (BIKE measured value)
- Max. Torque: 88 Newton metres (BIKE measured value)
- Weight: 2850 grams (BIKE measured value)
- Batteries: 400 Wh (2075 g), 600 Wh (3050 g), 800 Wh (3950 g) (weights determined in the BIKE lab)
- Range Extender: 250 Wh, 1450 g, without accessories (weights determined in the BIKE lab)
- Charger4 A (manufacturer's specification), 700 g (BIKE measured value)
- Charging times 800 Wh battery
- from 0 to 100 %: 6:08 hours
- 1 hour charging: 25 %
The Bosch Performance CX in detail
Strengths and weaknesses Bosch Performance CX
Strengths
- super modulation
- E-MTB+ mode with situational overtravel
- rattle-free
- Very good range
- Large bike selection
Weaknesses
- does not communicate with Garmin and Co.
- No quick charger
BIKE Conclusion on the Bosch Performance CX
With the latest update, the Bosch Performance CX is better than ever. Although it cannot achieve the absolute best values in terms of weight or power, its modulation and smart support are unrivalled. The motor's range is also unrivalled. You definitely can't go wrong with this drive, whether you're a touring biker or a trail expert. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, Deputy Editor-in-Chief BIKE Magazine
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
